Jesse Feyereisen, a master of toy photography, revisits the iconic 1989 Burton/Keaton/Nicholson Batman movie, channeling its dark charm into a stunning image of the Jack Nicholson Joker figure. For fans who grew up with this cinematic masterpiece, this photograph is a nostalgic nod, capturing the spirit of a beloved era of superhero films. Feyereisen’s work demonstrates how even simple setups can produce dramatic results, inviting viewers into a world where toys become art.
Jack Nicholson Joker figure in a toy photography setup
Setting the Stage: Simplicity Meets Impact
Feyereisen’s approach to this Joker photograph is a lesson in minimalist mastery. Utilizing a 6” Jack Nicholson ‘Joker’ figure from Beast Kingdom, he constructed a scene that prioritizes impact over complexity. A clean black backdrop immediately isolates the subject, pushing the viewer’s focus directly onto the Joker. This uncluttered environment is key, ensuring no distractions detract from the figure’s menacing presence.
Lighting the Lunacy: Mastering Smoke and Shadow
The lighting setup is equally straightforward yet highly effective. An overhead Godox AD200 with a snoot acts as the key light, precisely directing illumination onto the Joker and creating dramatic shadows. To soften the scene and add depth, a pair of additional AD200s in strip boxes serve as fill lights, preventing the shadows from becoming too harsh. The introduction of smoke, generated by a Ulanzi fog machine, elevates the atmosphere, adding an element of mystery and intrigue, like a Dance With The Devil In The Pale Moonlight. This hazy ambiance perfectly complements the Joker’s chaotic nature.
Height and Perspective: Utilizing Platypod Gear
To achieve the optimal angle, Feyereisen employed his Platypod Handle and Platyball Elite Ballhead. The Platypod Handle offered the flexibility to extend the camera upwards, providing varied perspectives and allowing for dynamic compositions. The Platyball Elite ensured a perfectly level capture, crucial for maintaining a professional and polished final image. This gear combination highlights the versatility of Platypod products in achieving precise camera positioning in toy photography.
Post-Processing Prowess: Blending Reality and Vision
The final image is a testament to Feyereisen’s post-processing skills. In Photoshop, he skillfully blended two separate smoke images with a blank plate (no smoke). This technique allows for meticulous control over the smoke’s density and placement, crafting the perfect ethereal effect. The concluding steps involved processing, color grading, and cropping in Lightroom, refining the image to its final, captivating form. This post-processing stage is where the image truly comes to life, embodying the phrase “dance with the devil in the pale moonlight” through its moody and artistic rendering.
Explore more of Jesse Feyereisen’s captivating toy photography on his Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/jessefeyereisen/) and website (https://www.jessefphotography.com/). Discover how simple techniques and readily available tools, combined with a touch of creative vision, can bring your toy photography dreams to reality.
